This is the newest edition of the ANSI Z136.3 American National Standard of Laser Safety in Health Care. It is nationally recognized as the definitive document on laser safety in all health care environments, providing guidance for the safe use of lasers for diagnostic, cosmetic, preventative and therapeutic applications where bodily structure or function is altered or symptoms are relieved.
This standard is applicable to any location where a health care laser system (HCLS) is used as a medical device, including hospital facilities, ambulatory surgery centers, individual medical, dental and veterinarian offices, and non-medical locations, such as salons and spas.
It is intended for use by all personnel associated with the installation, use, operation, maintenance and service of the HCLS, as well as anyone who might be at risk of exposure to the laser beam during a health care application procedure.
Extensively revised to reflect current thinking and practice, updates to the Z136.3 (2024) include:
- Harmonization with the ANSI Z136.1 Safe Use of Lasers.
- Clarification concerning signage.
- Updates to the informative appendices.
- Updated references to International Standards.
The Z136.3 standard is a must for all medical LSOs. It is a proven key to implementing and maintaining a successful medical laser safety program, and provides the foundation for facility policies, criteria for education and training, and compliance with best practices.